I haven't tried that method.
Does your inlet manifold have the removable plate? (some models have a one-piece manifold, some have a two-piece one). I remove the plate and with the airbox and manifold clamps slackened off it (and throttle and choke cables removed) it gives me just enough room to get the carb out.
I did it on the side of an autobahn in the dark once

GC